Sampheng or Sampeng Market is the window through which you can experience the rich cultural heritage of Bangkok. It is best for small entrepreneurs who want to grow. As the land rate is quite affordable and also receives heavy foot traffic. If you want to really enjoy and make the most of the market then bargaining skill is a must. It invites tourists from all around the world. They come in to indulge in the electrifying atmosphere and enjoy the authenticity of the place. The market is usually crammed with people. The scenes can be chaotic. You will see the vendors yelling the prices at the top of their voice. The sound of the bustling market motorbikes and handcarts that’s passing through the market. The noise of the trucks roaring under the weight of fresh produce. But it is this energy that gives that character it is today.
Things to do in Sampheng Market
Sampheng is right in the heart of Chinatown. It is one of the oldest markets in Bangkok. You will find everything in the market that you cannot think of. The market has both wholesale and retail traders. You will find mostly small traders in the market who want to stock up on their products. The rates are pretty reasonable. You get colourful fabrics and accessories for toys, household items, and traditional snacks. Other things are fashion jewellery, bags, wallets, purses, cosmetics, pens, stationery, gifts and souvenirs. If you are a shoe lover then you should definitely visit this market. There are around 70 shoe shops. Most of the shops have collections for women. Only a limited number of shops have men’s shoe wear. You will find normal wear shoes, beach wear, sports shoes, sandals and more.
If you do not like crowded places then you should not visit this place. You will be struggling to find space to walk among the people.
Best time to visit the Market
To make your experience at Samphenga Market truly enriching. It is best to visit the market during the morning and afternoon. Also there are chances of rain so it is better to avoid visiting the market in the evening time. The best months to visit the market would be from November – January.
The market is open on all the days of the week and starts its daily function from 8am to 6pm.. However if you wish to get good deals you should try to be their first lucky customer. As the shopkeepers believe that their first sale will bring them good luck.
How to Reach Sampheng Market in Bangkok?
Getting to Sampheng Market is really easy. It is located in the centre of Bangkok’s Chinatown. Sampheng Market is specifically on Soi Wanit 1. It is a narrow alleyway running parallel to Yaowarat Road. To reach there you can take the –
- MRT: Board the train and stop at Sam Yot Station. From the station the market is a small walk away. It will take you 10 – 15 minutes to reach the market.
- Bus: You can take the bus from the Central World to the floating market. There are several buses that run during the day. Some of the bus numbers are 6, 79, 78, 34, 45, 67 and 68.
- Taxi: You can book an uber or taxi. This will be the fastest means to reach the market. It will take approximately half an hour to reach the Sampheng Market.
- Tuk Tuk: You can take a personal tuk tuk to reach the destination.
Sampheng Market in Bangkok
The history of the place dates back to 1782 when Bangkok was established as the capital. During that time Teochew Chinese shifted here from their original area near the Grand Palace. It marked the beginning of the settlement of the Chinese community in Bangkok. Sampheng grew from a modest living to a more modern settlement. It also developed the neighbouring community. Now it is one of the busiest trade hubs in Bangkok. The original street of Sampheng now is called the Soi Wanit 1. It has been an important lane for trade and a symbol of Bangkok heritage. It was once a tiny little lane and lined with opium dens, gambling houses, and disorderly houses. Today it has transformed into a bustling market street. You will now find many things on the streets. There are the makeshift department stores, colourful shop stalls, and countless vendors.
